Jackets for Jill

Lacey Double Button Blazer, from Max (159).

Fashion brands that do not include a dress jacket in their summer line-up are missing a wardrobe essential.

The jacket is not only a trans-seasonal gem but also helps to beat the sometimes wildly fluctuating temperatures of the summer months.

That's why every sharp and current label in New Zealand has one, two or more jacket styles in their latest ranges for the warmer days.

And this includes all brands, whether they sit at the high or low ends of the market.

There's nothing pedestrian about the styles either.

They're exciting, with the latest takes on bombers and blazers lining up alongside more mannish, structured designs.

Whether they're cropped or long-line, the new summer jackets are designed to move readily between work and play.

Their versatility allows them to be teamed with this season's pretty dresses or to provide additional style for sporty dress pants and shorts, or casual denim in all its manifestations.

The "boyfriend blazer", which is slightly oversized and worn with sleeves rolled up, has found new sophistication and presents one of the latest looks.

Designers are using details to give the classic jacket a contemporary edge.

There are ruched sleeves, and shoulder styles that include raised sleeve heads and pleating.

There are endearing hints of the '50s through to the '80s in the varied silhouettes.

While most of the dress jackets are in cotton mixes, they also come in lace and linen, show tweed effects or shimmer with sequin glamour.

And leather jackets are also available in trend-setting dress styles such as svelte classic blazers.

When it comes to colour, black continues to dominate although some ranges are also bringing jackets out in cream, white and pastels.

And this season's myriad styles mean women will have an easy time finding a jacket to take them through the warm days while flattering their figure type.

They can also consider the garment an investment piece that will far outlast the summer to come.